Simply put, tonight’s game at Scotiabank Arena is a big one.

The Leafs will host the Panthers for the first of three meetings down the stretch here between the Atlantic Division rivals.

Toronto’s two points back of the Cats with one game in hand. This should be a doozy.

Naturally, that’s where the conversation started on the Thursday edition of Leafs Morning Take. After a stretch of two home games in 42 days, the Leafs are finally home for a few games. And it couldn’t have come at a better time after a lethargic 1-2-0 road trip. On top of all that, Chris Tanev’s listed a game time decision. His potential return would be massive for Craig Berube and company.

Brought to you by Sobeys, we offered up a full game preview. In their first meeting back on November 27^th, Florida smothered an undermanned Leafs squad 5-1. Toronto’s roster will look much different tonight. Additionally, we touched on Scott Laughton and Brandon Carlo making their home debuts. Both players have had turbulent starts, but that’s to be expected. They will be fine. Also, we did discuss the power play, which has been showing signs of positivity since the 4 Nations break going 9-for-28 in the past nine games. Baby steps, right?

Courtesy GRETA BAR YYZ, BIG WALK aka Keith Tkachuk hopped on the program. He was awesome. We talked being a proud papa, 4 Nations, calling the Panthers soft on the radio a few years ago, and how he views the Leafs right now. For the record, he spoke glowingly about Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, and Craig Berube. Talk about a vote of confidence!

Then, thanks to Charm Diamond Centres, former Panther and current NHL media member Keith Yandle dropped by to dish on the big game and the Maple Leafs. In addition to sizing up the Leafs and Panthers, Yands chimed in on the whole Marner/Rantanen thing, Matthews’ play this season, and his experience playing with Laughton in Philadelphia.

Jay Rosehill will be back in the mix for the Thursday edition of Leafs Morning Take. Join us at 11 AM ET as we offer up a full preview for the big measuring stick game at Scotiabank Arena with the Florida Panthers.

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The first ever TLN Nation Vacation is now less than a month away, and you don’t want to miss out on this trip of a lifetime. Join us from Thursday, March 20^th to Sunday, March 23^rd as we take our talents to Music City to watch Toronto play Nashville. BOOK TODAY!!